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5. How should I use the creams/ointments that I
was given?
6. How effective is ultraviolet light therapy?
7. Are there risks with the pills used for psoriasis?
8.
Can I expect to "cure" my psoriasis?
9. Are there
any new treatments being developed for psoriasis? 1.
What is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is a condition in which the body's
immune system causes the skin cells to proliferate more rapidly. This rapid turnover
causes the build up of the scaly plaques that are commonly seen with this condition.
2. How common is psoriasis?
Psoriasis is
relatively common involving close to 2% of the total population.
3. Are there certain things that can make psoriasis
worse?
Certain things are known to trigger psoraisis flares. These
include but are not limited to infection, stress, and certain medications (beta-blockers
and calcium channel blockers (blood pressure medications), anti-malarials, captopril,
glyburide, gemfibrizol, and others).
4. What are the treatments for psoriasis?
The treatments for psoriasis range from topical medications, to ultraviolet
light, to oral medications. Treatment largely depends on the extent of the
skin involvement.
5. How should I use the creams/ointments that I was
given?
Most of the creams and ointments should be applied directly
to the plaques or areas of skin invovement. Regimens may range from applying one
ointment or cream twice a day during the week and a second agent on the weekend,
to applying one ointment/cream/gel in the morning and another during the night
time. In addition, there may be different topical medications used for areas like
the face, groin, and armpits, as well as the scalp.
6. How effective is ultraviolet light therapy?
Ultraviolet light or UV light is used for more extensive skin involvement. This
form of treatment is very successful and safer to use than many of the oral medications.
To learn more, click here...
7. Are there risks with the pills used for psoriasis?
Most of the pills that are used to treat psoriasis carry risks. These risks mostly
involve either the liver or the kidney. Monitored correctly, the risk can be well
controlled and the medications often allow for significant improvement. Should
treatment with these medications be necessary it is important to talk about all
of the risks and benefits with your doctor.
8. Can I expect to "cure" my psoriasis?
Unfortunately, for now there is no cure for psoriasis. Psoriasis can be controlled
and put into remission, but there is always a change of a flare.
9. Are there any new treatments being developed for
psoriasis?
Psoriasis is one of the most researched skin conditions
in dermatology. To stay up on the latest developments, you can can join the national
psoriasis foundation as well as check many other site. Or, just ask your doctor!
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